The concept of a king's command is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the authority and governance exercised by monarchs in biblical history. A king's command often carried the weight of law and was expected to be obeyed by subjects without question. This entry explores the biblical understanding of a king's command, its implications, and notable examples from Scripture.

Authority of the King

In ancient Israel and surrounding nations, the king was seen as God's appointed ruler, endowed with authority to govern the people. This divine appointment is evident in passages such as 1 Samuel 10:1, where Samuel anoints Saul as king, signifying God's choice. The king's command, therefore, was not merely a human decree but was often perceived as carrying divine sanction.

Obedience to the King's Command

The expectation of obedience to a king's command is underscored in several biblical narratives. In Ecclesiastes 8:2, the Preacher advises, "Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God." This reflects the belief that loyalty to the king was intertwined with one's duty to God. Disobedience to a king's command could result in severe consequences, as seen in the account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who defied King Nebuchadnezzar's order to worship an idol (Daniel 3:13-18).

Examples of King's Commands

1. Saul's Rash Command: In 1 Samuel 14:24-30, King Saul issues a command that his troops must not eat until evening, hoping to avenge his enemies. This command, however, leads to unintended consequences, highlighting the potential folly of impulsive royal decrees.

2. David's Census: In 2 Samuel 24:1-10, King David orders a census of Israel, which is later recognized as a sin. This incident illustrates that even a king's command can be flawed and subject to divine judgment.

3. King Ahasuerus and Esther: The Book of Esther provides a narrative where the king's command plays a pivotal role. King Ahasuerus issues a decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves, which ultimately leads to their deliverance (Esther 8:8-11).

4. Solomon's Wisdom: King Solomon's commands are often associated with wisdom and justice. In 1 Kings 3:28, the people of Israel stand in awe of Solomon's wisdom when he resolves a dispute between two women claiming to be the mother of a child, demonstrating the king's role as a judge.

Divine Commands vs. Human Commands

While the king's command held significant authority, Scripture also emphasizes the supremacy of God's commands. In Acts 5:29, Peter and the apostles assert, "We must obey God rather than men," when faced with a command from the Sanhedrin that contradicted God's directive. This principle underscores the belief that divine authority ultimately surpasses human authority, including that of kings.

The Messianic King

The ultimate fulfillment of the king's command is found in Jesus Christ, the Messianic King. His commands, as recorded in the Gospels, carry divine authority and call for obedience from all believers. Jesus' teachings, such as the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20, reflect the kingly authority bestowed upon Him by God the Father.

In summary, the king's command in the Bible represents a complex interplay of authority, obedience, and divine will. It serves as a reminder of the responsibilities of leadership and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all earthly rulers.